Egypt says shootings along Israel border are necessary
By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
An Egyptian spokesman on Monday fended off criticism of his country's policy of using lethal force against African migrants trying to sneak across the border into Israel.
London-based Amnesty International says Egyptian border guards have shot and killed nearly 40 migrants trying to cross into Israel since the beginning of 2008.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Hossam Zaki said the use of force is necessary for Egypt's security because the border area is sensitive and criminal activities like drug trafficking are common.
Zaki said in a statement that the guards first fire warning shots before targeting the infiltrators.
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